Bizarre facts about the penis, from having a double penis to why the penis tilts to one side

EVER thought about really delving a little deeper into the world of genitalia? Specifically, the male reproductive organ?

Although penis-related jokes are common and a man’s penis can end up being the butt of jokes, how much do we really know about this organ?

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Half the population has a penis, so let’s educate ourselves about “masculinity”.

Here, Dr. Chun Tang, Medical Director and GP of Pall Mall Medical shares some bizarre but fascinating facts about the penis.

1. The penis can tilt

Curvy penis? Don’t worry, it’s normal.

“As with other parts of the body, there can be natural variation in the shape and structure of the penis,” says Dr. Tang.

“Some degree of curvature may simply be part of an individual’s anatomy.”

Dr. Tang says one of the reasons people have a curve in their penis is due to abnormalities in the tunica.

“The tunica albuginea is the fibrous covering of the erectile tissue of the penis,” he says.

“Abnormalities or irregular distribution of tissue within the tunica albuginea can cause the penis to curve to one side.”

Damage to the tunica albuginea can occur due to trauma caused by vigorous sexual activity, so be careful!

But a significant or painful curvature, especially if it develops suddenly, may indicate an underlying problem that should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Dr Tang adds: “Peyronie’s disease is another possible explanation, a condition characterized by the formation of fibrous scar tissue in the penis, leading to curvature or flexion during erections.

“This scar tissue, known as plaque, can develop on one side of the penis, causing it to droop or curve.

“Treatment options for penile curvature vary depending on the underlying cause and severity and may include medication, surgery, or other interventions.

“If someone is concerned about the curvature of their penis, they should consult a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and treatment.”

2.Semen moves fast

During ejaculation, semen moves as fast as a car on a normal road.

Dr. Tang reveals that the average ejaculation speed is estimated to be around 45 kilometers per hour.

He says: “During ejaculation, muscles contract to propel semen through the urethra, leading to this surprisingly rapid release.”

3. Yes, you can have two penises!

Having a double penis, also known as penile duplication or diphallia, is an extremely rare condition. But it happens.

Dr. Tang says a double penis occurs when “embryonic development results in the formation of two penises,” adding, “This condition is estimated to occur in about one in every five to six million live births.”

Diphallia can manifest itself in several ways. There could be two complete penises or just partial ones.

“There may be two penile shafts but a single glans or other variations,” explains Dr. Tang.

“Additionally, the severity of diphallia can vary, with some individuals having no other associated anomalies, while others may have other congenital anomalies that affect the urinary tract, reproductive organs, or other systems.

“Treatment may involve surgical correction to resolve any functional or cosmetic issues.”

4. Penile fractures occur

Although they occur at a rate of one in 175,000, it is possible to fracture the penis.

However, the NHS reported in 2023 that it had seen an increase in the number of people going to A&E with a broken penis.

Dr. Tang says, “A penile fracture occurs when the tunica albuginea, the fibrous covering of erectile tissue, tears due to trauma, such as aggressive bending or banging.

“Requires immediate medical attention.”

It is worth mentioning that as the penis does not contain bones, it cannot be broken.

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5. Erections can happen from birth

According to Dr. Tang, it is not uncommon for babies to come into the world with an erect penis.

He says: “Ultrasonography occasionally reveals a fetus with a fully developed erection, even before delivery.”

There is nothing to worry about and it is simply due to hormonal and blood flow changes.

6. The penis can get stuck

Although very rare, cases of “penis captivus” have been reported, in which the penis becomes temporarily trapped inside the vagina during sexual intercourse.

Dr. Tang says, “This is usually due to involuntary contractions of the vaginal muscles.

“Although it is a rare occurrence and usually resolves on its own, it can cause discomfort and panic for both partners involved.”

7. Your penis is longer than you think

The average penis size worldwide is about 5.35 inches, according to an analysis of 40 studies spanning nearly 90 countries.

But one-third of the penis is inside the body, anchored by the root of the penis inside the pelvis.

“This portion, known as the penile root or radix, consists of the bulb of the penis and the crura, which are two erectile structures that extend deep into the pelvis and attach to the pubic bone,” says Dr. Tang.

“The remaining two-thirds of the penis, including the shaft and glans (head), are external.”